AMERICAN CANYON -- Residents in this city at the edge of Napa Valley got a taste of traditional India on Saturday.

That's when Arvind Nischal, an American Canyon resident, hosted his second Diwali festival, presented by the Napa Valley Indian American Association.

"It's a big festival in India. ... It's an event we celebrate like Christmas," Nischal said, speaking outside the festival at American Canyon Middle School.

The Hindu festival commemorates the return of Lord Rama, an avatar of the god Vishnu, from 14 years in exile. Rama was welcomed home by lamps, so the five-day festival also includes many lamps, giving it the nickname "festival of lights."

When Nischal first organized a Diwali observance last year, it was held at the community center and was a smaller affair.

"This time there's more than 200 people in there," Nischal said.

Attendees were treated to various performances, ranging from classical Indian dance to the flair and drama of Bollywood. Various dignitaries also attended, including Mayor Leon Garcia, who helped initiate the festival by lighting an incense burner.

The audience also got a chance to participate and learn some steps to a dandia dance and were treated to some Indian snacks.